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How to listen /audition at audio shows?

I’ve been to RMAF a few times and learned a lot. Great fun and I eventually bought quite a bit of gear that I heard there. Right now I am going to Capitol Audio show to try to audition several high-end streamers (Aurender, Lumin, Innous, 432 EVO, Grimm and Antipodes are on my list). My request is for advice on how to compare models that will, of course, be in different systems in different rooms, etc. We all know how limited listening is in hotel rooms and that it will always sound different in your house with your system, etc etc. Accepting that, what are some of the smart strategies you’ve found to compare components at an audio show? Wouldn’t it be great if I could get two of the streamer vendors to connect their units to the same system, say after hours ... Not likely I know but any other ideas, tips or strategies? thanks
mcmanus
dynamiclinearity
297 posts
 
Setting up in audio shows is always a problem. Some presenters are better at setting up, especially quickly as needed at shows than others. If a system sounds good at a show it is good. If it doesn't sound good you can't be sure what's going on and if it's a product that interests you, you need to hear it in other venues.

If you don't have a lot of time the Jim Smith advice to listen outside a room and if it's good there then go in is great advice. My friend, George Bischoff, didn't have much time to see shows as he was always exhibiting and that's how he decided whether to spend time in a room.
edcyn
1,876 posts
 
As millercarbon sez -- You go to a room.  You audition...er...listen to what's on. Maybe you've brought something for them to play, but that's not crucial to the experience.  In any case, the vital question is do you like it?  Does it push your important audiophile buttons? If it does but it still doesn't quite make it all the way for you, are you able to articulate what could still be better?  In other words, do the shortcomings seem fixable?  If so, take a brochure. Take some notes. Talk to the person in charge. (Sorry...I'm constantly being interrupted by trick-or-treaters.)
p05129
524 posts
 
Go back in time and read how MC evaluated speakers: he used YouTube!! I suggest we take up a collection so MC can attend an audio show to actually hear what a good system sounds like.

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,164 posts
 
to hear tell of it he is on the gold standard, but count me in for $.02

I do enjoy the mature response by audio union. A guy with a good plan. 
havocman
350 posts
 
Audio Troy you want $8,000 for a shelving unit give your head a shake what a rip off
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